adjective

intelligent

in-TEL-ih-juhnt/ɪnˈtelɪdʒənt/

Able to learn, reason, and respond appropriately.

The man's intelligent solution traces a route through the maze while avoiding dead ends.

An older man has correctly solved a branching maze: a continuous pencil route runs from the entrance to the exit, avoids several convincing dead ends, and finishes beneath his pencil.

Etymology

intelLatinbetween

+ligLatinchoose, pick out

+entLatindoing or being

Whether formed from intelligence or directly from the Latin participle, this adjective rests on “choosing between”: discerning distinctions. That underlying sense of understanding connects to being able to learn and reason well.

In context

A Shot Of Wildlife2:20

jackdaws are extremely intelligent. They've been shown not only to be able to recognize people, but also the expressions on their faces.

Things you need to know about JACKDAWS!

More examples

An intelligent student asks why the rule works.
Octopuses are intelligent animals that can solve puzzles.
She gives an intelligent answer to a difficult question.

Forms

intelligent · more intelligent · most intelligent

intelligence noun — The ability to learn, understand, and reason.

intelligently adverb — In a way that shows understanding.

Similar words

smart: A more informal word for mental ability and good judgment.
clever: Emphasizes inventive solutions and skill in handling tricky situations.
bright: Usually describes someone who learns and understands things quickly.